Also known as Crispin, the mutsu apple is a cross between the Golden Delicious and Indo apple. A popular dessert apple in Japan where it was first developed it is oftentimes referred to there as “the million dollar apple”.

Medium to large in size with a slightly oblong shape the skin of the Mustu apple is smooth and bright green to yellow in color. Its firm white flesh is crisp and juicy with a sweet-tart flavor that has subtle hints of spice. An excellent keeper, the mutsu apple will take on an even sweeter flavor in cold storage.

Nutritional Value

Mutsu apples are a good source of soluble fiber, which has been proven to help lower cholesterol, control weight, and regulate blood sugar. They also contain vitamins A and C, as well as a trace amount of boron and potassium, most of which is located in the apples skin.

Serving Ideas

With its sweet and delicately spiced flavor the mutsu apple is sought after for its use as an excellent dessert apple in the culinary world. They can be sliced and baked, hollowed out and stuffed, battered and fried or slow cooked into a sauce. Their sweetness will compliment pies and tarts. Cubed they will add moisture and flavor to muffins, breads and cakes. Mutsu apples will compliment savory applications as well. Try roasted or sautéed for a side dish or topping, slice and add to green, chopped and stacked salads or serve as an accompaniment to robust cheeses.

Geography/History

The mutsu apple was developed in Japan at the Aomori Research Institute in the 1930’s. It made its commercial debut in the United Kingdom and the United States in the late 1940s where it was renamed Crispin. Today it is marketed under both names and is grown in apple growing regions around the world.

Seasons/Availability

Mutsu apples are first harvested in fall and available through mid winter.